2/11/13

Boasting a fastball that reaches 95-96 mph and a wipeout, plus slider, Stanek is without a doubt one of the top pitchers in the 2013 draft class. The one knock on the right-hander is that he needs to do a better job pitching off his fastball this spring. Either way, he’s arguably the top arm on the board with pure stuff that should translate in the major leagues.

2. Chicago Cubs: Sean Manaea, LHP, Indiana State

3. Colorado Rockies: Austin Meadows, OF, Grayson HS (Ga.)

The top prep prospect in the 2013 draft class, Meadows is a highly athletic and toolsy outfielder with a 6’3”, 200-pound frame that oozes project. A left-handed hitter, he drives the ball to all fields with above-average bat speed and could feature above-average-to-plus raw power at maturity.
In the outfield, Meadows has both the speed and range to remain in center field, where his bat will offer the most value.

Moran is the best pure hitter in this draft class, and I don't think it's close. He's also got power and he's improving at third base. I think his feel for hitting is better than (Richie) Shaffer's, but he has less raw power and he's less athletic. I'm higher on Shaffer than some people, but I think they are comparable prospects. I think the consensus probably has Moran a little ahead of Shaffer.